A major water infrastructure disaster struck Kochi, Kerala, on Sunday night when a massive overhead water tank — with a reported capacity of 1.35 lakh crore litres — suddenly burst, flooding several houses and roads in the surrounding locality.
The incident occurred in the Elamakkara region, causing severe waterlogging, property damage, and panic among residents. Authorities said the tank collapse was so powerful that the force of the water destroyed compound walls, swept away parked vehicles, and flooded dozens of homes within minutes.
No Casualties, But Massive Damage Reported
According to preliminary reports, there have been no casualties or serious injuries, though several families were displaced and forced to evacuate their homes late at night as floodwater entered residential areas.
Officials from the Kochi Corporation and Kerala Water Authority (KWA) rushed to the spot to assess the situation and coordinate rescue operations. Emergency services, including the fire department, were deployed to help residents drain out water and salvage belongings.
“We heard a loud explosion-like sound, and within seconds, water started rushing in from all sides. Everything inside the house was submerged,” said a local resident whose home was affected.
What Caused the Tank Burst?
Initial investigation suggests a structural failure in the decades-old overhead tank, which had shown signs of wear and leakage in recent months.
Sources said maintenance work was scheduled for later this year, but the sudden rupture has raised questions about oversight and safety standards in municipal water infrastructure.
“A technical team is inspecting the remains of the tank to determine the cause of the collapse. Corrosion, pressure imbalance, or design fatigue could be factors,” said a Kerala Water Authority engineer on-site.
Officials have promised an independent structural audit of all major water storage facilities across Kochi in the coming weeks.
Local Impact: Homes and Roads Submerged
The burst flooded several residential colonies in Elamakkara and nearby Pottakuzhi, leaving streets underwater and property damaged. Residents reported losing household items, furniture, and electronics in the sudden deluge.
Water also entered several ground-floor shops and parking areas. Visuals from the site showed residents wading through knee-deep water as officials worked through the night to pump out excess water using high-capacity motors.
Traffic in surrounding areas was temporarily diverted, with local authorities urging commuters to avoid affected roads until cleanup operations are completed.
Response From Authorities
Kochi Mayor M. Anil Kumar visited the affected site early Monday morning and assured that all damaged homes will receive compensation.
“It is a serious infrastructural lapse. We have directed the Water Authority to submit a detailed report within 48 hours. Immediate relief will be provided to affected residents,” the Mayor said.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) is also monitoring the situation and has advised residents in nearby low-lying areas to remain alert.
Residents Demand Accountability
Angry residents have demanded a thorough inquiry and accountability from officials responsible for the tank’s maintenance. Locals allege that complaints about minor leaks and cracks had been raised repeatedly but were ignored.
Environmental activists have called the incident a wake-up call for urban infrastructure management, urging local bodies to regularly inspect ageing public utilities.
“This is not a natural disaster — it’s a man-made failure that could have turned fatal. Regular inspections and audits must be mandatory,” said a civic group spokesperson.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Where did the incident happen?
In Elamakkara, Kochi, Kerala.
Q2: Was anyone injured?
No casualties have been reported so far, though several homes were damaged.
Q3: What caused the water tank to burst?
Preliminary reports suggest structural failure due to corrosion or maintenance neglect.
Q4: How many houses were affected?
Over 30 homes and dozens of shops experienced flooding or property loss.
Q5: What actions are being taken?
The Kochi Corporation and KWA are conducting an inquiry and will compensate affected residents.
Published on : 10th November
Published by : SMITA
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Source credit : Reported by Aswin Nandakumar — NDTV India News Desk